The Power of Quiet Influence: Leadership Lessons from Carroll Hanley Goggin
October 15, 2025
Exploring the role of humility, data and deep relationships in effective leadership
B Student podcast host Betsy Gardner sits down with Carroll Hanley Goggin — a small business owner, community advocate, and past chair of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors — to discuss the understated yet powerful concept of “quiet influence.” Carroll’s story reveals that the most significant impacts aren’t always made by the loudest voices but often by those whose steady hands, thoughtful strategies, and well-nurtured relationships shape outcomes behind the scenes.
The Art of Quiet Influence
Carroll describes herself as a product of her environment. Influenced by a father known for selfless service — often acting as a “think tank” for local leaders — and a grandfather who drove community change without seeking recognition, Carroll learned that influence doesn’t require the spotlight. “I grew up around others who really did the work but didn’t want the credit,” she shares. This philosophy, distilled in the adage, “It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you don’t mind who gets the credit,” has guided her approach across business, education and advocacy.
Betsy highlights the power of having both “loud” and “quiet” influencers in leadership roles. She's candid about her own bold, public style and the value she finds in Carroll’s calm consideration of every angle before making a move — especially when navigating crises or the complex dynamics of organizational leadership. Carroll’s process is deliberate: “I really like to look at all sides of any of the issues that come before me … I’m really thinking about what’s in it for the Chamber, the community, the people involved.” This commitment to empathetic, inclusive, and thorough decision-making is what makes quiet influence so effective.
Building Trust Through Data and Relationships
One theme Carroll returns to is the power of data and relationships as foundations for influence. Before making decisions or advocating a position, Carroll ensures she’s well-informed. “If I don’t know something, I’m going to research it … I hope I can influence finding that middle solution that works for all sides.” This discipline extends to her small business, DBG Promotions, which works with thousands of factories locally and globally. Carroll’s reputation is built not just on service quality, but on the trust she engenders by rarely calling in favors unless absolutely necessary. “When you really need a favor, don’t have asked for a lot of favors you didn’t need.”
Relationships are equally important. Whether dealing with clients, colleagues or vendors, Carroll’s approach is clear: Be strategic, keep your “powder dry,” and deliver when it counts. This relationship bank means that when challenges arise — like a shipment of damaged champagne flutes for a client — solutions are found quickly with the support of long-standing partners.
Advocacy and Community Impact
Carroll’s influence extends far beyond her business. As a member of the Rollins College Board of Trustees, she played a pivotal role in recruiting the institution’s new president. She is also a key advocate for the arts in Florida, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, where she brings a lifelong passion for the arts.
Carroll leverages her quiet influence in government affairs as well, particularly within her industry’s national association, PPAI, advocating for policies that protect small business flexibility and support the arts. Her approach — understanding all sides, patiently building consensus, and presenting well-researched positions — helps her generate results even in polarized times.
Lifelong Learning and Paying It Forward
Carroll’s story is underscored by a commitment to continuous learning, a value she traces back to her liberal arts education at Rollins College. Even as a business leader, she seeks out opportunities for growth — whether executive courses, industry boot camps, or local advocacy work — believing that learning drives innovation and adaptability.
Her journey demonstrates that humility, patience, and a genuine interest in others — not just personal gain — are essential traits for building trust and driving meaningful change.
Conclusion: Leadership Lessons for the B Student
The conversation between Betsy and Carroll is a blueprint for influence rooted not in volume, but in value. Leaders seeking to make a lasting difference can learn from Carroll’s toolkit: thorough preparation, selective use of influence, relationship-building, and an unceasing commitment to learning and serving others. Sometimes, the most powerful voice in the room is the one you hear the least.
Listen to the full episode of the B Student Podcast for more on Carroll Hanley Goggin’s approach to leadership, influence, and community impact.